Tree Measurement

Demonstrate measurement of the trunk, crown, and height using vertical and horizontal measurement.

Compare results with other groups.

Create a graph of their findings for the trunk, crown, and height of the tree.

Define horizontal, vertical, and circumference.

Activities:

Trunk

Measure from the ground to 4 1/2 feet high on the trunk.

At that height, measure the trunk's circumference. Use a string around the trunk and measure the length of the string.

Round to the nearest inch. Record the number and label as circumference.

Crown

Find the tree's five longest branches.

Put markers on the ground beneath the tip of the longest branch.

Find a branch that is opposite it and mark its tip on the ground.

Measure along the ground from first marker to the second marker.

Record the number and label as crown.

Height

Have your partner stand at the base of the tree.

Back away from the tree, holding your ruler in front of you in a vertical position. Keep your arm straight. Stop when the tree and the ruler appear to be the same size. (Close one eye to help you line it up.)

Turn your wrist so that the ruler looks level to the ground and is in a horizontal position. Keep your arm straight.

Have your partner walk to the spot that you see as the top of the ruler. Be sure the base of the ruler is kept at the base of the tree.

Measure how many feet he or she walked. That is the tree's height. Round to the nearest foot and record your answer as the height.

Resources: String, ruler, paper pencil, meter stick, tree.

Evaluation:

Allow time for groups to compare answers and then remeasure the tree is needed. Usually it takes several measurements. Be sure to allow time for each person to take several measurements since students will be working with partners.

Classroom:

Have students make bar graphs using information gathered outside. Have students locate the biggest tree, smallest tree of the same species.